Rare Book Monthly

Vintage Paperbacks From Black Ace Books

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For those interested in teen idols, there is Elvis: What Happened by Red West, Sonny West, and Dave Hebler. This is something of a tell-all from some of Elvis' close friends and confidents after his passing. $10. Alternatively, you can purchase the James Dean Story. $10.

If bullets are your topic of interest, how about A Bullet for Cinderella? Her stepsisters would have found that appropriate. Actually, this one was written by famed mystery writer John D. MacDonald. $10. Not quite as famous is Howard Schoenfeld and his crime book Let Them Eat Bullets, but he too has a following. $8. Now for real mystery lovers, there's Tell Them Willie Boy Is Here. No, this book/film is not a murder mystery, but the subject whose photo is on the cover is part of one. You see, in the movie, the part of Willie Boy was played by Robert Blake, now accused of murder in real life. $10.

From the "adult" section comes the intriguing Sex on Horseback. That sounds difficult. $10. Or how about Fruit of the Loon? This masterpiece is described as a "gay sleaze classic." $20. Then there's Grip of Lust. Black Ace describes the cover as "tiny naked women grope a giant hairy arm." Great literature comes with great cover art. $10.

Here's a title I don't quite understand: The Man With The Lumpy Nose. Black Ace describes it as "has wear and creases. Not really that bad." However, I think they're describing the book's condition, not the lumpy nose. $8.

And yes, there are signed editions in the paperback field too. Corpus Earthling comes with the signature of author Louis Charbonneau. Don't expect a signed edition to come so cheaply. This one will set you back $12.

Black Ace Books has a website at www.blackace.net and they may be reached by phone at 323-661-5052.